Placeholder Content Image

Former Home and Away star's joyful baby news

<p>Former <em>Home and Away</em> stars Rebecca Breeds and Luke Mitchell are expecting their first child together. </p> <p>The Australian actress and her co-star turned husband confirmed the happy news on Instagram. </p> <p>The 37-year-old actress made her little baby bump debut at the Adelaide Film Festival and shared a picture of herself on the red carpet looking stunning in a form-fitting pink dress. </p> <p>“VERY excited to share baby Mitchell and @kangarooislandmovie coming sooooooooon! Thanks @adlfilmfest for having us and everyone who came to support us🙏🤍,” she wrote on Instagram on Tuesday.</p> <p>The mum-to-be rested one of her hands on top of the baby bump as she proudly smiled for the cameras. </p> <p>The actress was at the festival for the premiere of her new film <em>Kangaroo Island</em> on the event's closing night. </p> <p>Her husband commented on the post with a series of heart-eyed emojis. </p> <p>Breeds' co-stars and fellow actors were quick to congratulate the couple in the comments. </p> <p>“Congratulations Bec and Luke! Very exciting news,”<em> Home and Away </em>star Lynne McGranger said.</p> <p>“Ahhhhh amazing you guys! This is the best news!” former <em>Home and Away </em>actress Jessica McNamee added. </p> <p>“Congrats!!!!!” <em>A Perfect Pairing </em>actor Adam Demos said.</p> <p>The couple first met on the set of <em>Home and Away</em> in 2009 and quickly became a fan-favourite off-screen relationship.</p> <p>Breeds played Ruby Buckton on the soap between 2008 and 2012, while Mitchell played Romeo Smith between 2009 and 2013.</p> <p>The couple tied the knot in January 2013 and went to live and work in the US for years before returning to Australia. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram/ Seven</em></p>

Relationships

Placeholder Content Image

Former The Voice contestant wins Melbourne Cup

<p>A former <em>The Voice</em> contestant has won the Melbourne Cup. </p> <p>Two years ago, Robbie Dolan, who was in Rita Ora's team, placed in the top 24 of T<em>he Voice Australia</em>, and now he has celebrated an even bigger win after taking home the Melbourne Cup. </p> <p>Dolan, who was born in Ireland and is a keen jockey, first moved to Australia in 2016 when he was still figuring out his career path. </p> <p>“I came here eight years ago with an ambition of just having a crack,” the 28-year-old told the <em>Today</em> show on Wednesday morning.</p> <p>“Really just having a go, working hard and seeing what happens – and I’m sitting here with the Melbourne Cup.”</p> <p>While he had little luck on the reality TV show as he got eliminated in the sing-offs, his horse racing career has been more fruitful. </p> <p>Dolan started his career at the age of 17 in Ireland, where he participated in a nine-month training program and worked as an apprentice for about three seasons before trying his luck in Australia.</p> <p>Both his father and grandfather were successful riders in Ireland and it seems that racing is in his blood, after he and his five-year-old gelding Knight’s Choice pushed past Zardozi and nudged Warp Speed out of the winning spot 20m before the finish line. </p> <p>While he has celebrated the big win, the jockey remains humble as he revealed the key to winning the Cup was "a lot of luck". </p> <p>“You know, I just needed the runs to open in front of me, and thankfully they did," he said on the <em>Today</em> show. </p> <p>Plus, it helps when you've got a “good little horse” like Knight’s Choice. “He’s an underrated little horse and proved a lot of people wrong yesterday.”</p> <p>As for his singing career Dolan may need to give it a rest for the time being, saying: “My voice is half gone from last night." </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Music

Placeholder Content Image

Former pilot shares tips for fighting jet lag

<p dir="ltr">A former pilot has shared his fool-proof tips for beating jet lag when you’re flying to the other side of the world. </p> <p dir="ltr">As an ex-airline pilot, Jeremy Burfoot knows a thing or two about dealing with dreaded jet lag. </p> <p dir="ltr">After his years flying Qantas planes to every corner of the globe, Captain Burfoot has revealed to <em><a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/how-to-beat-jet-lag-ex-airline-pilot-shares-hack-for-flights-to-europe/656b0602-9cd2-4923-b3b4-1310a2613235">9Travel</a></em> the unique way he would combat the condition while he was working.  </p> <p dir="ltr">"I used to try and stay in a time zone of where I was living," he told <em>9Travel</em>. "So I went to London, I would just sleep during the day and go out at night."</p> <p dir="ltr">However, for those who need to be up during usual hours, he advised trying to avoid one thing.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The first day you get there, spend all day in the sun, in the daylight," he says. "Resist having an afternoon nap so you're really tired when you go to bed."</p> <p dir="ltr">Captain Burfoot went on to share his hacks for anyone flying from Australia or New Zealand to Europe, which can be some of the most gruelling flight paths in the world. </p> <p dir="ltr">"If I was planning to go to Europe, I would try to split it into two, try to fly both of the days in the daylight," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"You'd want to be on a flight to Singapore out of Australia that leaves in the morning, so you're basically doing a daylight flight to Singapore, then you have an overnight, eat some curry or something.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"And the next day catch a daylight flight to Europe. So it doesn't actually feel like you're up in the middle of the night."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Captain Jeremy Burfoot</em></p>

Travel Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Disturbing details emerge about former suspect in William Tyrrell's disappearance

<p>An investigation into the disappearance of William Tyrrell has raised questions about why a man who was once considered a person of interest was not called by police to give evidence on the case. </p> <p>The man, who has not been named, allegedly had a shrine of the missing boy at the end of his bed, containing a collage of pictures and news reports, as well as handwritten poetry quoting Gary Jubelin, the former lead detective on the case.</p> <p>Mr Jubelin, who was taken off the investigation in 2019, has previously written to NSW’s director of inquests saying the man’s behaviour was “concerning” and he should be called as a witness.</p> <p>However, the man shared with <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/national/crime/former-william-tyrrell-suspect-had-shrine-to-missing-boy/news-story/1fbf310d22250c00a8cc2de081d9e77b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a></em>'s investigative podcast into Tyrrell's disappearance revealed that he was never called to give evidence. </p> <p>When questioned by the outlet's podcast - which clarified that they were not suggesting any wrongdoing by the man who has never been charged with any offences - he said he was “different from the mainstream” and denied any involvement in the case, despite not having an alibi for the day the then three-year-old disappeared. </p> <p>The man, whose property is a few hundred metres through the bush from Benaroon Dr where William went missing, said he was home alone at the time the toddler was reported missing.</p> <p>The man's property was searched two days after William was last seen, and was placed under police surveillance years later. During this time, police uncovered barrels of small animal bones at his property. </p> <p>When asked about them, the man first denied they were there, then claimed they were planted on his property by police.</p> <p>“What I don’t like is the way people who are slightly different are singled out here,” he said.</p> <p>“They get harassed, they get persecuted because they’re odd.”</p> <p>Asked about the police investigation, he said, “I don’t like the way people are presumed guilty until proven innocent."</p> <p>“It could have been someone who was driving past (who was responsible for William’s disappearance). That’s as likely as anything else isn’t it?"</p> <p>Mr Jubelin, who left the police in 2019 and was subsequently convicted of illicitly recording conversations with another person of interest, said he did not question the man in detail at the time as he expected him to be called at the inquest.</p> <p>“(The man) should at the very least be called as a witness,” Mr Jubelin wrote to coronial officials in 2020 after leaving the police force.</p> <p>“There were a number of things about (the man) that I consider concerning.”</p> <p>“What was not put to him and is most concerning is he had what could best be described as a shrine to William Tyrrell at the end of his bed. This included a picture of William and quotes from myself regarding the investigation."</p> <p>“I had an expectation this would be done at the inquest.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: NSW Police</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former Today Show host's surprise return

<p>It's been almost two months since Brooke Boney wrapped up her final <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/today-show-star-s-teary-farewell" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Today Show</em></a>, and bid farewell to viewers after five years on the show to further her studies at Oxford University in the UK. </p> <p>The former news and entertainment presenter made a surprise return to the Today show on Thursday morning, sharing updates on her latest adventure to hosts Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo. </p> <p>Since settling in London, she was a guest at a reception held by none other than King Charles and Queen Camilla. </p> <p>The royals hosted a luncheon for Commonwealth countries at St James Palace, and the event was attended by other high-profile Aussies such as Cate Blanchett and Kathy Lette. </p> <p>"It was so wonderful, you go there and the whole experience is pretty surreal," the proud Gamilaroi Gomeroi woman told the<em> Today</em> hosts.</p> <p>"And I think especially as an Aboriginal person, it's like, oh how do I engage with this?' You know, it's a very complicated history between us and the royals but I thought, I'd rather be someone who's in the room and having conversations, than someone who's not."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAoszVotXgp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAoszVotXgp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kathy Lette (@kathy.lette)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>She also admitted that she was curious to see the inside of the palace, and while her brush with royalty was exciting, there was another guest at the event she was equally excited to see. </p> <p>"Do you know who else was there? Grace Jones," she revealed.</p> <p>"I was like, 'wait, oh, hang on, hang on, that is THE Grace Jones! I'm sure this was the tamest party that she's ever been to, because I've heard some very wild stories about Grace Jones."</p> <p><em>Image: Today</em></p>

TV

Placeholder Content Image

Body found in search for wife of former rugby star

<p>A body has been found in the search for Jenny Hastings, the wife of the former Scotland rugby star Scott Hastings. </p> <p>Jenny, 60, went missing at Wardie Bay, a wild swimming spot near Edinburgh, on Tuesday.</p> <p>A massive search involving police, ambulance and coastguard crews was launched in the Firth of Forth, according to <em>The Sun</em>. </p> <p>Despite their efforts, the search was stood down on Tuesday night. </p> <p>On Saturday afternoon, police said a woman's body was found in the Hound Point area of South Queensferry, near Edinburgh. </p> <p>Formal identification has yet to take place, but police said that: “The family of missing woman Jenny Hastings has been informed.”</p> <p>They also said "there did not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal". </p> <p>Police were treating her disappearance as a “high-risk missing persons case,” as Jenny struggles with her mental health. </p> <p>Her family previously issued a statement amid fears she was dead. </p> <p>“It appears that she wished to end her suffering in what was a regular and healing place for her," they said. </p> <p>“She loved the water but unfortunately her mind was not in a place of safety.</p> <p>“The Hastings family are absolutely heartbroken. We miss our Jenny.</p> <p>“She leaves a gaping hole in all our hearts and hope that she is returned to us safely so that we can celebrate her remarkable life.”</p> <p>Scottish Rugby also shared a statement on social media yesterday, sending their love and support to the Hastings family. </p> <p>“Scottish Rugby sends its love and support to Scott Hastings, Scotland cap 848, after his wife Jenny was reported missing whilst swimming earlier this week.</p> <p>“Our thoughts are with their children, and the wider Hastings family, at this heartbreaking time.”</p> <p>Jenny had been open about her struggles with mental health. In March 2017, she disappeared from the couple's Edinburgh home for 36 hours and walked to the Pentland Hills while she was suffering from depression. </p> <p>The couple both became ambassadors for charity Support in Mind Scotland and devoted work to helping others with their own mental health by staying active. </p> <p>They helped launch the 100 Streets challenge, encouraging people to get out and exercise with friends.</p> <p><em>Images: news.com.au</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Former Qantas CEO to have bonuses slashed

<p>Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is set to have his bonuses slashed by $9 million. </p> <p>The decision comes after the airline pledged to implement all 23 recommendations made in its review of key governance matters, which were revealed in an update on 2023 financial year executive remuneration.</p> <p>Joyce, who left his role as the Qantas CEO in September 2023, will have his last annual salary with the airline cut by $9.26m, leaving him with $1.8 million. </p> <p>His hefty bonuses were withheld amid mounting pressure from investors following a string of controversies, including the illegal sacking of 1,700 workers, the selling of tickets on already cancelled flights and allegations of anti-competitive behaviour.</p> <p>Qantas released a statement on Thursday saying Mr Joyce's whopping salary led to a number of mistakes that lead to “considerable harm” across multiple areas of the company. </p> <p>“The events that damaged Qantas and its reputation and caused considerable harm to relationships with customers, employees and other stakeholders were due to a number of factors,” the statement read.</p> <p>Following a settlement with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the airline admitted to “misleading customers in relation to flight cancellations processes” and with the approval of the Federal Court, will pay a $100m penalty on top of also agreeing to a $20m customer remediation program.</p> <p>Incoming Qantas chairman John Mullen said it was important that the board learns from previous mistakes. </p> <p>“It’s important that the board understands what went wrong and learns from the mistakes of the past as it’s clear that we let Australians down,” he said. </p> <p>“As the national carrier it is our duty to make sure we always act in the best interest of stakeholders and hold ourselves to the highest level of accountability.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

Money & Banking

Placeholder Content Image

Olympian and former world champ shot dead at 42

<p>South African police have found the body of former Olympian and high jump world champion Jacques Freitag after he was reported missing. </p> <p>Local authorities say that they found the body of the 42-year-old in a field near a cemetery in the city of Pretoria with fatal gunshot wounds, and are treating his death as murder. </p> <p>South African news Netwerk24 reported that a source claims Freitag was allegedly executed, as one of the gunshot wounds was allegedly located in the back of his head.</p> <p>Freitag's sister, Chrissie Lewis, had appealed for help on social media to find her brother, who went missing in the early hours of June 17th after leaving his mother's house.</p> <p>Lewis said he had struggled with drug addiction after his athletics career ended.</p> <p>He was then not seen again until his body was discovered. </p> <p>Freitag won the 2003 world title in Paris and competed at the 2004 Olympics, representing South Africa in high jump.</p> <p>He was among a select group of athletes to win world titles at youth, junior and senior level, as World Athletics called Freitag “a prodigious athlete”. </p> <p>He won the high jump at the 1999 Youth World Championships in Poland, the Junior World Champs in Chile in 2000 and the Senior's in France in 2003.</p> <p>In 2003, he cleared 2.35m at the Stade de France in Paris to win the gold medal at the IAAF World Championships.</p> <p>He retired from sport in 2013 and was said to have in recent times been sleeping on the streets or friends' couches, having been unable to hold down a full-time job.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Hahn Lionel/ABACA/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Daughter of former All Black charged over alleged hit and run death

<p>The daughter of former New Zealand All Black has been charged over an alleged hit and run that left a 65-year-old man dead in Auckland. </p> <p>Helena Jade Cribb, the daughter of Ron Cribb, was charged earlier this year after Jason Collins' body was found by a member of the public on O'Brien Rd, Lucas Heights in the early hours of December 7. </p> <p>The 22-year-old previously had a name suppression, which has now lapsed. </p> <p>Earlier this year, Detective Sergeant Ben Bergin said the driver allegedly involved had been identified not long after Collins' death. </p> <p>"A thorough investigation has been underway into the tragic circumstances by the Waitematā CIB and we have reached a point where charges have been filed," Bergin said.</p> <p>Collins has been remembered as a devoted father, husband and friend. </p> <p>"The tragic loss of Jason has left an unfillable void in our hearts," a statement on behalf of his family read. </p> <p>"...his absence is a constant ache, a relentless reminder of what we've lost.</p> <p>"Taken from us too soon, his departure is a profound and senseless blow that we struggle to comprehend.</p> <p>"Each day is a battle against the overwhelming emptiness left in his wake.</p> <p>"We ask for privacy at this time as we continue to grieve."</p> <p>The 22-year-old reportedly faces a charge of operating a vehicle carelessly, causing death while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. </p> <p>She is set to reappear in court in September. </p> <p><em>Image: NZ Police</em></p> <p> </p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Distressing twist in sudden death of former MAFS groom

<p>Just days after the shocking death of former <em>Married At First Sight NZ</em> contestant Andrew Jury, shocking new details have emerged about his final weeks before his <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/married-at-first-sight-groom-dies-at-just-33" target="_blank" rel="noopener">passing</a>. </p> <p>The 33-year-old Auckland-based builder passed away in recent weeks, as his untimely death was announced by two of his former <em>MAFS</em> contestants on Sunday.</p> <p>Now, Jury's father Roy confirmed to the <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/married-at-first-sight-nz-groom-andrew-jury-dies/47OQFBCORZHARPILFOEA65N7SE/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>New Zealand Herald</em></a> that his son was on remand in Mt Eden Corrections Facility prison at the time of his death. </p> <p>Andrew had been just hours from a scheduled court appearance, where he was facing charges that included “assault with intent to injure, wilful damage and possession of an offensive weapon.”</p> <p>His father also told the publication that he’d been worried about his son’s mental state ahead of his court hearing, adding that his family were “bewildered” and “deeply saddened” by the tragic turn of events.</p> <p>Roy said that his son had been arrested on April 2nd and had told his relatives he was “struggling” in prison.</p> <p>“It should have been a red flag when Andy stopped communicating with family and friends,” he told the outlet.</p> <p>Andrew's death was announced by former <em>MAFS NZ</em> stars Brett and Angel Renall, and Benjamin Blackwell who wrote a joint statement to the <em>New Zealand Herald</em> to break the news of his passing. </p> <p>“It’s with the heaviest hearts we’ve come together to acknowledge the passing of Andrew Jury,” they said. “We had the absolute pleasure of filming and participating in a show which leaves us intricately linked for a lifetime."</p> <p>“Despite his struggles, Andrew was always friendly and the life of the party during our shared experience, and he really valued his time on the show."</p> <p>“At this time, our entire cast wishes to send our deepest condolences and love to his family.”</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem;"><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former Home and Away star admits brutal attack on woman

<p>A former <em>Home and Away</em> star has admitted to bashing a woman during a suspected mental health crisis.</p> <p>Orpheus Pledger, 31, faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Monday via a video link from custody at Ravenhall Correctional Centre. </p> <p>Police prosecutor Fionnuala Kennedy said Pledger attacked the victim repeatedly over a three-month period at a home in Northcote, Melbourne, with one of the attacks captured on a motion-capture camera on March 25. </p> <p>Footage from the camera showed Pledger grabbing the woman's hair, pulling her to the ground and stomping on her head. </p> <p>The court was told that the woman called triple zero at 1.35am to raise concerns Pledger was suffering a “mental health episode", before the line disconnected right after she said “he’s coming.” </p> <p>Officers arrived 15 minutes later and found the woman lying on the floor of her home unable to get up, with Pledger nowhere to be seen.</p> <p>The woman was taken to hospital, where doctors noted that she had bruising on her forehead, a laceration to her cheek, bruising to her right hand and marks on her face and ear.</p> <p>The court was told that he was arrested the following day, but he was unable to be interviewed because of his "erratic behaviour". </p> <p>He was released in April for a court-ordered medical assessment due to concerns for his mental health, but he fled from the hospital on April 23 after a six hour wait. </p> <p>He then returned to the woman's home to collect his things and when asked to leave, he told her: “why, I haven’t done anything”. </p> <p>Police issued a public appeal before he was arrested two days later. </p> <p>Defence lawyer Jasper MacCuspie noted that during that time, his client was unable to get the mental health assessment he required, due to limited resources, saying that it was a widespread issue within the health system.</p> <p>The court heard that there is currently a shortage of ambulance and police resources, which Magistrate Justin Foster labelled as “outrageous”.</p> <p>““The only reason I bailed him at the time was because there was nothing available for him to be  … assessed in a prison setting. And there is no money in the hospital to have these important things assessed,” he said. </p> <p>“There’s a shortage of everything at the moment, it’s outrageous.”</p> <p>MacCuspie also said that his client had begun acting at the age of eight or nine but fell into the wrong crowd, and his drug use escalated in his late 20s when he was declined a role on US TV series <em>The 100</em>. </p> <p>“At the very last minute that fell through. It was a destabilising event,” MacCuspie said.</p> <p>“He aspires towards acting in future, but accepts by virtue of matter that’s a somewhat challenging prospect,” he added. </p> <p>Pledger will be assessed for a community corrections order, but has pleaded guilty to four assault-related charges, and will be sentenced on Wednesday. </p> <p><em>Images: news.com.au/ Channel Seven</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former All Blacks star dies at 58

<p>Former All Black and Canterbury stalwart Shayne Philpott has died aged 58. </p> <p>The former New Zealand rugby union player died on Tuesday after a medical event. </p> <p>Philpott was All Black No.895 and a prolific points scorer during a decade-long career for Canterbury, playing 113 games for them. </p> <p>His death has been confirmed by New Zealand Rugby. </p> <p>"Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of former All Black Shayne Philpott, who has passed away aged 58," their tribute read on social media. </p> <p>"Philpott played 14 matches for the All Blacks between 1988-1991, and was a stalwart of Canterbury rugby. </p> <p>"Rest in love All Black #895 🖤"</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of former All Black Shayne Philpott, who has passed away aged 58.</p> <p>Philpott played 14 matches for the All Blacks between 1988-1991, and was a stalwart of Canterbury rugby.</p> <p>Rest in love All Black #895 🖤 <a href="https://t.co/M7IcglhhxW">pic.twitter.com/M7IcglhhxW</a></p> <p>— New Zealand Rugby (@NZRugby) <a href="https://twitter.com/NZRugby/status/1805737931849572842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2024</a></p></blockquote> <p>Philpott started playing for Canterbury in 1986 at the age of 20, before being selected by the All Backs and making his debut on the 1988 tour of Australia. </p> <p>He played 12 games and two Tests for the All Blacks, and was known for his versatility as he could fill most positions in the backline. </p> <p>Loved ones have paid tribute to the rugby player and father. </p> <p>“It is with a very heavy heart that we share the shocking news of Shayne Philpott’s passing today ..." one family member wrote on Facebook. </p> <p>“A much-loved father and brother. Rest in peace brother.”</p> <p>“It’s just unfathomable…,” another emotional tribute read. </p> <p>“Shayne Philpott you have been the epitome of humbleness and decency. I will miss you at celebrations, with your great yarns and humour.</p> <p>“I’m just so terribly sad we don’t get to say goodbye, and to thank you for being you. You are gone way too soon my friend. Rest in peace and love, you wonderful human xox.”</p> <p><em>Images: Twitter</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Pirates of the Caribbean actor and former pro surfer killed in shark attack

<p>Tamayo Perry, renowned surfer and actor known for his role in <em>Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides</em>, tragically lost his life in a shark attack off Oahu's North Shore on Sunday.</p> <p>The 49-year-old was surfing near Goat Island when the incident occurred, as confirmed by Shayne Enright of the Honolulu Emergency Services Department.</p> <p>Perry, who played a buccaneer in the popular movie franchise, had a distinguished career with appearances in films such as <em>Blue Crush</em> and the television series <em>Hawaii Five-O</em>. Beyond his acting career, Perry was celebrated as a former professional surfer and a beloved lifeguard.</p> <p>Responding to an emergency call just before 1pm local time, personnel from Honolulu Ocean Safety, alongside the city's fire, police and emergency medical services departments, rushed to Malaekahana Beach. The caller reported seeing a man who appeared to have suffered shark bites. Lifeguards promptly brought Perry to shore, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival. In response to the attack, Ocean Safety personnel posted shark warnings in the area.</p> <p>"Tamayo's personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more," said Honolulu Ocean Safety acting chief Kurt Lager at a news conference. "Tamayo was a legendary waterman and highly respected," added Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, describing Perry's death as "a tragic loss".</p> <p>Perry, alongside his wife Emilia, ran the Oahu Surfing Experience, a business offering surfing lessons. According to his biography on the company's website, Perry surfed professionally for over 15 years, notably winning the Pipeline Master trials in 1999. He began his career as a lifeguard on the North Shore for the City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety in July 2016. That same year, he appeared in <em>Pirates of the Caribbean</em> and an episode of <em>Hawaii Five-0</em>.</p> <p>Perry's wife Emilia shared a heartfelt tribute to her lost husband on Instagram, writing: "We all want to be the hero of our own story, one of the redeeming characteristics of humanity is our desire to follow our convictions always and without fear. Few of us are able to truly be that hero, Tamayo Perry was is and will be forever.</p> <p>"He was everyone’s big brother, stern and uncompromising with an infectious and kolohe smile. He was your rescuer in time of need, your safety when all things fell apart. He was a knight forged in the fires of the North Shore in the 90’s, his faith in Christ the rock upon which he stood. Few are those who truly follow in the footsteps of Jesus, Tamayo never took his eyes off the path.</p> <p>"Tragic though his passing may be, he left this world doing what he loved where he loved to do it. We find strength in knowing he is in heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ, trading barrels at Pipeline with his friends that have gone before him."</p> <p>The World Surf League also expressed their condolences in a statement: "We are deeply saddened to share that the surf community lost a beloved icon yesterday. A well-known surfer and lifeguard, Tamayo Perry, passed away after injuries from a shark attack that occurred on the East Side of Oahu. Tamayo was a Pipeline/Teahupo’o specialist, freesurfer, former competitor, and member of the WSL for many years. He became a lifeguard for the city and was a big part of the North Shore community. Our hearts go out to Tamayo’s family and friends."</p> <p>Perry's passing has left a profound void in both the surfing and local communities, where he was deeply admired for his skills, charisma and generous spirit.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8nL-QeS5C2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8nL-QeS5C2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Tamayo Perry (@oahusurfingexperience)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><em>Image: Walt Disney Studios | Instagram</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

“He tried to kill me": Shock claims against former TV presenter

<p>Former Channel Seven presenter Liam David Cox has appeared via audiovisual link in Sydney Downing Centre Local Court on Monday, following claims that he forcefully strangled a woman during a domestic dispute. </p> <p>The woman told police that Cox had wrestled her to the ground, straddled her, and proceeded to forcefully strangle her until she lost consciousness.</p> <p>“He tried to kill me,” she told police. </p> <p>The court heard that police found the woman bleeding from her nose and coughing up blood, when they attended the scene. </p> <p>They also found blood splattered on the bedsheets and pillows, and on tissues in the toilet. She was treated by paramedics before being hospitalised for her injuries. </p> <p>The alleged incident occurred at a house in Vaucluse, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, on the night of May 4, and Cox was arrested at a hotel in Bondi Beach the following day. </p> <p>Cox has spent nearly a month behind bars, and was applying for bail during the court hearing on Monday. </p> <p>The court heard that the altercation occurred after he had attended a charity fundraiser with the woman where he had a few drinks before they became embroiled in a heated argument. </p> <p>Magistrate Greg Grogin said the facts stated that the woman had been “the instigator” and “quite aggressive”, adding that he wasn't "victim blaming" but adding context to the “extremely serious allegations” where Cox allegedly lashed out  after an “ongoing” argument. </p> <p>Cox's lawyer Ben Barrack told the court the couple had clashed three times that night, and the woman had punched and kicked him in the lead up to the alleged assault. </p> <p>The former TV presenter also claimed that he was acting in self-defence, but admitted that he had not used reasonable force. </p> <p>His lawyer added that the woman’s allegations were “highly problematic” and emphasised she had not yet provided a statement to police about the alleged assault.</p> <p>Police prosecutor Nellia Ng argued that Cox should not be granted bail because there was a risk that he would further endangered the alleged victim commit further offences, or fail to appear in court.</p> <p>However, the Magistrate determined that the risks could be mitigated if Cox resided in Queensland and was barred from contacting his alleged victim.</p> <p>He granted bail with strict conditions including having to surrender his passport, report to police, and abstain from contacting the woman.</p> <p>“Domestic violence should not occur anywhere at any time with anybody for any reason,” Magistrate Grogin said.</p> <p>“Any temptation to contact (the woman) will be a short-course way to come back before the court via AVL wearing green. You don’t need to do that.”</p> <p><em>Image: YouTube</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former missing person found dead at age 40

<p>A former missing girl has been found dead in Queensland, 24 years after she disappeared as a teenager. </p> <p>The body of Natasha Ryan, who was at the centre of one of Australia's most bizarre disappearances, was found on the Rockhampton Golf Course on Sunday, with police saying the circumstances of her death were not suspicious.</p> <p>The RACQ CapRescue chopper service had been searching for a reported missing person for several hours on Sunday when Ms Ryan's body was found, as statement from Queensland Police said emergency crews confirmed her death. </p> <p>“Police will prepare a report for the coroner following the sudden and non-suspicious death of a woman in Rockhampton,” it said.</p> <p>Ms Ryan first made headlines in 1998 when she was 14 years old, when she ran away from home to be with her 21-year-old boyfriend Scott Black. </p> <p>The teenager was presumed to have been murdered by serial killer and rapist Leonard John Fraser after the investigation into her disappearance turned up no leads. </p> <p>However, five years later after a tip off to police, she was found hiding in a cupboard at the home of Mr Black in central Queensland in 2003.</p> <p>She then became known nationwide as 'the girl in the cupboard'.</p> <p>In 2005, the pair stood trial on charges of falsely causing a police investigation, where Mr Black pleaded guilty to perjury for telling police he didn’t know where Ms Ryan was, and was jailed for 12 months. </p> <p>Ms Ryan was also found guilty of causing a false police investigation and fined $1,000.</p> <p>The couple later married and had four children. </p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News / 60 Minutes</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Former detective shares new theory on Samantha Murphy's murder

<p>After several weeks of no leads, police were happy to share their breakthrough on the case of Samantha Murphy's murder after they located her mobile phone. </p> <p>During a "<a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/major-update-in-search-for-samantha-murphy-s-body" target="_blank" rel="noopener">targeted search</a>", officers found Ms Murphy's iPhone on the bank of a dam, in what is one of the most significant developments in the case as police continue to search for Ms Murphy’s missing body.</p> <p>However, retired detective Charlie Bezzina has urged police and members of the public that just because the phone has been located, it could still be some time until Ms Murphy's body is found. </p> <p>Bezzina suggested that the phone had been planted in the dam and then concealed Ms Murphy’s body elsewhere in a bid to mislead police.</p> <p>Mr Bezzina, a veteran cop with decades of experience, said he found it perplexing that police could locate the submerged phone without prior intelligence. </p> <p>He speculated that authorities might have had some degree of tracking information while the phone was still active, hinting that the police may know more than they’re disclosing.</p> <p>Mr Bezzina went on to suspect that someone may have been in possession of Ms Murphy's phone for some time before discarding it. </p> <p>“With phones it’s amazing. There’s a lot the carrier, or carriers, don’t tell us about the capabilities of a phone,” Mr Bezzina said via Herald Sun.</p> <p>“When you’ve got a phone that’s off, people ask the question, ‘is it still transmitting’, and ‘if the battery goes flat does it still transmit?’ Some do and some don’t.”</p> <p>Mr Bezzina said it’s not uncommon for offenders to keep items for a while before discarding them, particularly mobile phones. </p> <p>“We don’t know when that phone was dumped in there, it is not unusual for offenders to keep items for a while, especially mobile phones … for all we know that might have been discarded just weeks ago,” he said.</p> <p>“Often offenders go back and do things, keep the phone somewhere or with them, and then dump it later on."</p> <p>“And that’s where they’ll get any evidence, if it’s been pinging … people can think ‘I’ll drive 10 or 15 kilometres away and I’ll dump the phone there to really put them off the scent, if the phone is in some way traceable’ … so not unusual at all for it to be dumped in a separate location (to the body).”</p> <p>Ms Murphy was last seen on February 4th, and although 22-year-old Patrick Orren Stephenson has been charged with her murder, her body has yet to be found. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine News</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former pilot accused of murder shares his version of events

<p>Former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn has shared his version of events from the day Russell Hill and Carol Clay were allegedly murdered. </p> <p>Mr Lynn, who is on trial for the murders of the elderly campers, claimed Mr Hill, 74, knifed himself in a struggle after he accidentally shot his childhood sweetheart Ms Clay, 73, in the head.</p> <p>Police allege Mr Hill and Ms Clay were murdered while camping in the remote Wonnangatta Valley in Victoria's Alpine region more than four years ago, with Crown prosecutor Daniel Porceddu telling the jury at the opening of the trial exactly how and why Lynn allegedly killed the couple.</p> <p>"The precise circumstances of the killing are unknown, nor is the motivation," he said.  </p> <p>The jury heard it was most likely a dispute over the use Mr Hill's drone, as Mr Porceddu said, "There might have been an argument or confrontation between the men. It is not known how Mr Hill was killed."</p> <p>But in providing a brief defence, Lynn's barrister Dermot Dann KC, claimed Mr Hill and Ms Clay's death was the result of a tragic accident, telling the jury, "We say not a case of murder, this is a case of two accidental, tragic deaths."</p> <p>"Tragic accidental deaths in circumstances that were not of Mr Lynn's making and not of his choosing."</p> <p>Mr Dann told the jury that Mr Hill allegedly stole Lynn's shotgun after he became enraged about Lynn playing loud music on the night he was killed. </p> <p>The barrister then detailed how a fight over the gun ensued, which resulted in Mr Hill accidentally shooting Ms Clay in the head, as Mr Lynn tried to disarm him. </p> <p>Mr Dann said Lynn picked up the gun and fired its remaining ammunition into the air before being set upon by an enraged Mr Hill. </p> <p>"The next thing is Mr Hill's advancing towards him with a knife screaming at him 'she's dead'," Mr Dann said. </p> <p>"A struggle developed over the knife. Mr Lynn trying to defend himself - they're locked in this struggle - and as part of that struggle the two men fall to the ground  and the knife goes through the chest of Mr Hill."</p> <p>Upon his arrest, Mr Dann claimed Lynn co-operated with detectives, telling them where to find the bodies of the campers, and once again telling the jury that Mr Lynn is not guilty of murder or manslaughter.</p> <p class="mol-para-with-font" style="margin: 0px 0px 16px; padding: 0px; min-height: 0px;"><em>Image credits: Supplied / Facebook </em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former SAS Australia contestant recalls terrifying Ozempic overdose

<p>Former SAS Australia contestant Roxy Jacenko has opened up on the terrifying experience she had after overdosing on Ozempic. </p> <p>Jacenko was desperate to lose 15kg of extra weight, which she gained as a result of taking Tamoxifen - a hormone therapy drug she took for her breast cancer for seven years.</p> <p>“The Tamoxifen made me put on 15kg,” she said during  a special <em>7NEWS Spotlight TV</em> investigation into the drug. </p> <p> “And whilst to other people, they didn’t look at me and go, 'Oh well, she’s put on a lot of weight,' I didn’t feel comfortable.</p> <p>“And I tried everything. I tried the fad diets. I tried starting at a gym, doing workouts. I tried not eating much and I couldn’t shake the weight. I just wanted to fix it, and this seemed like the way. Ozempic seemed like the easy answer.”</p> <p>Weight loss is one of the side effects of the medication, which is usually used to help adults with Type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar. It is this side effect that has millions wanting to use it for weight loss. </p> <p>Despite Novo Nordisk - the pharmaceutical company supplying Ozempic -  advising the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration that supplies throughout 2023 and 2024 will be limited and it should only be prescribed by doctors to diabetics, people have found other ways to obtain it.</p> <p>Jacenko revealed that despite her local GP telling her she didn't meet the criteria for the injection, she bought it on the black market in Nowra, NSW and ordered an Uber to collect it for her. </p> <p>“It was about $2,500 for the drive there and back, and then it was another $700 for the two pens,” she said. “I was actually like a junkie. I look at it now and I was like a junkie.”</p> <p>She recalled how she took more than the recommended amount in a desperate attempt to lose weight. </p> <p>“I took four times the amount in one hit,” she revealed.</p> <p>“I felt OK at that point in time. The aftermath of it was I think I’m going to die.</p> <p>She added, “in the morning, I was driving to work. I was sweating. I was so hot and then I just kept vomiting nonstop. What not to do? One milligram of Ozempic.”</p> <p>“That night, I ended up in hospital. They had never seen this before. This was the first they had seen of an Ozempic overdose. Like the shaking, my whole body was shaking, I couldn’t control my legs. It’s like I had no control of my body.</p> <p>“My arms and legs were like this. And then in addition to that, they just start pumping you full of fluid. You can rest assure I came out skinny, but it didn’t last for long. Literally, I truly thought this is it. I’ve been sick in my time. Cancer was a walk in the park compared to how bad I felt for those three days.</p> <p>As a result, Jacenko no longer takes the the medication and has since stopped drinking and started following a healthy diet. </p> <p>"And if anyone asks me, “Would you do it again, Ozempic?” No freaking way. I literally thought, “This is it. I’m going to die.”</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Body

Placeholder Content Image

Former world champion cyclist to face court over Olympian wife's death

<p>Rohan Dennis, the husband of former Olympic cyclist Melissa Hoskins, will face court after allegedly causing her death. </p> <p>Dennis, a former world champion cyclist, was arrested in January and charged with  causing death by dangerous driving, driving without due care and endangering life.</p> <p>It is alleged that he recklessly struck his wife with his car in front of their home in Medindie in Adelaide on December 30.</p> <p>Hoskins was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital but died later that night. </p> <p>The pair share two children together, and Dennis is due to appear at the Adelaide Magistrates Court today.</p> <p>If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. </p> <p>The Australian cycling community were devastated when news of Hoskins' death first broke. </p> <p>"Melissa described her team pursuit gold medal at the 2015 world championships as the highlight of her career but for the rest of us, the highlight was just having her around," AusCycling chief executive Marne Fechner said at the time.</p> <p>"Although she retired in 2017, her presence as an alumnus of the sport has been felt and appreciated by many in the cycling and riding community."</p> <p>Hoskins competed in the 2012 Summer Olympics as a member of the Australian track cycling team pursuit, that finished fourth place. </p> <p>She also competed at the 2016 Olympics for the same team, and was in the squad that won the 2015 world title in the event. </p> <p>The Olympian was laid to rest in her hometown, Perth, in January with a public memorial service held in Adelaide during what would've been her 33rd birthday a month later.</p> <p>Dennis, who has been on bail since January, attended both ceremonies. </p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Former home of Kylie Minogue and Michael Hutchence for sale

<p>The stunning Sydney apartment that Michael Hutchence and Kylie Minogue shared for two years has hit the market. </p> <p>The late INXS frontman and the Aussie pop princess lived in the Liverpool Street apartment from 1989 to 1991, with the building boasting a colourful history. </p> <p>The current owner and director of AusMed Innovations Gavin Holland, who owns the Longevity Lounge in Double Bay, believes the picturesque apartment overlooking Hyde Park and the harbour was the scene of some wild parties.</p> <p>“I know that back in those days there was a lot of socialising that went on, for want of a better word,” says Holland.</p> <p>“In this building, there’ve been suicides, murders, famous and infamous people — all sorts of stuff."</p> <p>Despite the past history of the building, the two-bedroom two-bathroom apartment boasts new finishings and stunning views of the city. </p> <p>“But what we’ve done recently is spend two-and-a-half million dollars on refurbishing the rooftop pool and jacuzzi, so that’s obviously an expense the new owners won’t need to fork out.”</p> <p>Hutchence is known to have lived in the apartment with Minogue on level 27, just two floors below the communal rooftop pool, for two years during their whirlwind romance.</p> <p>The apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-sydney-144104704">2704/187 Liverpool Street, Sydney </a>has a $3.3 million guide, and will be auctioned at the end of February. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / realestate.com.au</em></p>

Real Estate

Our Partners